More than half of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, placing immense pressure on natural resources and infrastructure. Buildings alone account for about 40 percent of global energy use and significantly contribute to carbon emissions, while climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of natural disasters. To address these challenges, civil and architectural engineering faculty at the University of Miami are advancing resilient, ecofriendly structures and systems. Their work includes developing biocompatible, durable materials and smart structures, creating adaptive shoreline protection systems, and enhancing community resilience. Collaborations with units such as Arts and Sciences, the School of Architecture, and the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, along with access to UM’s unique SUSTAIN facility, position the department to lead as a research hub for coastal structure resilience.
